Introduction

These Rice Krispie Peanut Butter Balls are a delightful no-bake treat combining the creamy richness of peanut butter with the light crunch of puffed rice cereal. Coated in smooth chocolate, they make a perfect snack or dessert that’s easy to prepare and fun to share.

A close-up view of a round chocolate-covered peanut butter ball cut in half, showing two layers: a thick outer dark brown chocolate shell with a smooth texture, and a crumbly, light golden peanut butter filling inside with small bits and rough texture. In the background, several whole chocolate-covered balls sit on a white plate with a subtle gold rim, all placed on a white marbled surface. The focus is sharp on the cut piece at the front, while the other balls and plate behind are softly blurred. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 cup peanut butter (such as Justin’s Honey Peanut or your favorite brand)
3/4 cup powdered sugar
1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
2.5 cups puffed rice cereal (such as Rice Krispies cereal)
12 oz semi-sweet chocolate chips
1 tbsp coconut oil (optional, can substitute vegetable shortening)

Instructions

Step 1: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and set aside. In a stand mixer bowl or a large mixing bowl with an electric hand mixer, combine the peanut butter, powdered sugar, and melted butter. Mix on medium speed until the mixture is well combined and creamy. Add the puffed rice cereal and mix on low speed for 10-15 seconds until evenly distributed.
Step 2: Using a cookie scoop or your hands, roll 1-2 tablespoon-sized balls of the peanut butter mixture. Arrange them on the parchment-lined baking tray. Place the tray in the freezer for at least 15 minutes or in the refrigerator for at least one hour to firm up before coating with chocolate.
Step 3: Melt the chocolate by combining the chocolate chips and coconut oil in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave in 30-second increments for about a minute and a half total, stirring between each until fully melted.
Step 4: Remove the peanut butter balls from the freezer. Carefully drop each ball into the melted chocolate, rolling to coat completely. Use a fork to lift the balls out and place them back onto the parchment-lined tray. Repeat until all balls are coated. Optionally, garnish with sprinkles or extra rice Krispies. Chill in the refrigerator until the chocolate is fully set before serving.

Tips & Variations

For a different flavor, try using almond butter instead of peanut butter.
To make these nut-free, use sunflower seed butter and verify the cereal and chocolate are nut-free.
Add a pinch of sea salt on top of the chocolate coating to enhance the flavor.
If the mixture feels too sticky to roll, chill it longer or lightly grease your hands with butter or oil.

Storage

Store the peanut butter balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. For longer storage, freeze them for up to a month and thaw in the fridge before serving. To reheat, let them come to room temperature briefly for the best texture.

How to Serve

The image shows six round chocolate-covered balls placed on white parchment paper with some melted chocolate drips and smudges around them. Three of the balls have red and green sprinkles on top, with the green shaped like leaves and the red as small round dots, while the other three are plain chocolate with a smooth, shiny texture. The chocolate coating is thick and has a few slight imperfections and bumps. The balls are evenly spaced in a loose grid pattern, set against a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use crunchy peanut butter instead of creamy?

Yes, crunchy peanut butter can be used, but it will add a bit more texture to the balls. If you prefer a smoother consistency, stick with creamy peanut butter.

Do I have to use coconut oil when melting the chocolate?

No, coconut oil is optional. It helps make the melted chocolate smoother and shinier, but you can substitute vegetable shortening or melt the chocolate without any added fat.